About the
Chorus
Learn about our history, mission, values, and the
people who make the music possible.
Using music to build a more inclusive, equitable Appalachian community since 2012.
About the
Our Mission
Music with a
Purpose
“We use our voices and individual gifts to create enriching musical experiences, promote inclusion and equality, combat hostility toward
minority groups, and strengthen our communities through meaningful partnerships.”
This mission drives every rehearsal, every performance, and every community connection we make. We believe the arts have a unique power to bridge divides and build a more just and joyful world.
Community Impact
By the Numbers
100+
Members
Members
14+
Years of Music
Years of Music
2
Regional Locations
Regional Locations
1000s
Lives Touched
Lives Touched
Our History
From the Beginning
The Appalachian Equality Chorus was founded in 2012 as the Knoxville Gay Men’s Chorus — a small ensemble of passionate singers committed to using music as a vehicle for LGBTQ+ visibility and advocacy.
Over the years, the organization evolved to reflect the full spectrum of voices in its community. We expanded our membership to include all voice types and identities, and changed our name to the Appalachian Equality Chorus to better represent our inclusive mission and the region we proudly call home.
Today, AppEC performs across the region, partners with local organizations, runs music education outreach programs, and continues to grow — united by the belief that every voice belongs.
What We Stand For
Our Values
Inclusion
Every person is welcome here regardless of identity, background, experience, or ability.
Advocacy
We use music as a tool for social justice — lifting voices that need to be heard.
Community
We are rooted in Appalachian communities and serve the region with care and pride.
Artistry
We are committed to musical excellence and the transformative power of collective performance.
Always with us
In Memoriam
Forever part of our harmony, we honor the members of our chorus community whose voices, friendship, and impact continue to resonate.
Region
Serving Appalachia
Based in Knoxville, Tennessee, the Appalachian Equality Chorus serves communities across the greater Appalachian region — from the Tennessee Valley to the mountains of East Tennessee.
We hold auditions in Knoxville and Johnson City, perform across the region, and partner with local schools, organizations, and community groups to amplify our impact. Appalachia is our home, and our music reflects its beauty, diversity, and resilience.